UFC Fighter In Running For Award From PETA

UFC fighter Thiago Alves is a strong supporter for animals, and now he might be rewarded because of it.

Alves was recently announced as a nominee for the Libby Award from peta2. The award Alves is up for is the “Most Likely to Kick Butt for Animals” honor, and fans can cast a vote for him online.

“Thiago Alves is a passionate, outspoken advocate for animals, and that makes him a champion in our book,” PETA Director of Youth Outreach and Campaigns Marta Holmberg said. “All of peta2’s nominees are winners because they’re inspiring young people across the country to get active for animals every chance they get.”

Others up for the award are pro wrestler Austin Aries, Le’Veon Bell of the Pittsburgh Steelers and pro surfer Tia Blanco. Other Libby Award categories include “Best Use of Internet Stardom for Animals,” “Best Vegan Makeover,” and “Best New Vegan Food Item.” Voting ends on December 12 at noon EST. Winners will be chosen by peta2, whose motto reads, “Animals are not ours to eat, wear, experiment on, use for entertainment, or abuse in any other way,” based on several factors, including vote count, and will be announced on December 16.

Alves is set to return to the Octagon next month at UFC 183 against Jordan Mein.